Imaging of superficial biological tissue layers using polarized light

A imaging device includes a light source, a detector, and an optical polarization system for video imaging of superficial biological tissue layers. The device relies on taking a set of measurements at different polarization orientations so as to render a new image that is independent of the light reflected from the surface of a tissue sample and that is independent of the light scattered from deep tissue layers. The device may comprise multiple light sources or multiple light detectors. The light source may provide light in a variety of forms such as coherent light and modulated light. Optical devices such as beam splitters, lens and mirrors may be utilized to allow images to be acquired along different light paths.